Mariska Hargitay and Ice-T, the two longest-running actors in primetime TV history, return to lead the cast of Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (SVU) Season 26. Hargitay reprises her role as SVU Captain Olivia Benson, while Ice-T steps back into the shoes of Sergeant Odafin Tutuola.
The 2024 TV season already welcomed the fan-favorite characters in Season 25, and with Season 26 arriving within the same calendar year, fans are in for another thrilling ride.
Law & Order: SVU Season 25 was shorter than usual, featuring only 13 episodes instead of the typical 19-23. However, expectations are high for Season 26 to return to its standard episode count. NBC has already confirmed the release schedule for the upcoming season alongside the flagship Law & Order series.
Meet the Main Cast of Law & Order: SVU Season 26 (2024)
1. Mariska Hargitay as Captain Olivia Benson
Mariska Hargitay continues her record-breaking run as Captain Olivia Benson, the compassionate and determined leader of Manhattan’s Special Victims Unit. As captain, Benson oversees investigations involving vulnerable victims, including cases related to children and sex crimes.
Season 25 focused heavily on Olivia’s emotional journey as she blamed herself for the kidnapping of Maddie Flynn, a teenager she spotted being abducted in broad daylight. Thankfully, Maddie was rescued and later invited Olivia to her 16th birthday party, hinting at a continued bond between the two in Season 26.
Hargitay’s acting career also includes roles in Leaving Las Vegas, Lake Placid, and Can’t Hurry Love.
2. Ice-T as Sergeant Odafin “Fin” Tutuola
Ice-T returns as Sergeant Odafin “Fin” Tutuola, who has been a core member of the SVU team since Season 2 in 2000. Fin serves as Benson’s right-hand man and a dependable voice of reason within the unit.
In Season 25, Fin faced a life-threatening situation when he was shot by a child seeking revenge for his father’s wrongful arrest. However, Fin’s protective instincts shone through as he safeguarded the boy and helped clear his father’s name.
Fans are also curious about Fin’s relationship with Detective Phoebe Baker (played by Jennifer Esposito), with some hoping the pair might consider marriage in the new season.
Ice-T is also known for his work in Surviving the Game, New Jack City, and Tank Girl.
Law & Order: SVU Season 26 premieres on NBC in 2024. Stay tuned for more updates on the cast, characters, and exciting storylines ahead.
